Thoughtful support, evidence-based insight, and a space to figure out what’s next
education and experience
Chances are something in your life feels stuck. Maybe you’re juggling high expectations and emotional overwhelm, navigating a major life transition, or trying to better support your child or teen. You may be grieving, managing anxiety, or questioning past diagnoses that never quite felt right. Whatever it is, you’re ready to understand yourself more deeply.
And you're ready to look closer
something isn't working
I’m Dr. Samantha Martinez, a licensed psychologist who works with individuals across the lifespan—from children to adults, athletes to professionals, parents to students. My work spans therapy, consultation, and assessment, and while each of those services looks a little different, the heart of my approach is always the same: helping you make sense of what’s happening and take meaningful steps forward.
For some, this might mean parents seeking guidance on supporting a child struggling with emotional outbursts or the transition to college. For others, it could be an adult navigating grief after the loss of a parent or an athlete who’s mastered the “I’m fine” mentality but feels disconnected beneath the surface. It may be an individual who has spent years feeling misunderstood, questioning past diagnoses, and searching for clarity or a child whose reading challenges have left them frustrated and discouraged.
We’ll figure out what’s going on—and what to do next
Not everything has to stay stuck
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We’ll look at the patterns shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—whether rooted in early experiences, current stressors, or long-held beliefs. Together, we’ll build a therapeutic relationship grounded in curiosity, honesty, and respect for your strengths. From there, we’ll tailor our work to your goals using evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
How we work together
An evidence-based approach shaped by you
No matter what brings you here, whether it’s clarifying a diagnosis, understanding learning differences, managing overwhelming emotions, or finding direction, our work will center on your strengths and values. Growth isn’t about becoming someone else; it’s about developing the tools and insight to create a life that aligns with what truly matters to you. Together, we will work toward movement, balance, and greater clarity in your life.
We’ll work with who you are, and what matters to you
My training includes a Ph.D. and Master’s in School Psychology, as well as a Master of Social Work, all from the University of South Carolina. I completed my residency in Pediatric Psychology at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. Also, I completed my postdoctoral experience at Southeast Psych, where I completed therapy and assessment across the lifespan. I have worked extensively in school, in-patient, pediatric, and community-based settings. Further, I supported student-athletes at the University of South Carolina. I’m a licensed psychologist in North Carolina (License #6662) and PSYPACT certified (#20529), which allows me to offer virtual services across participating states.
Alongside my clinical work, I serve as a Research Consultant for the University of South Carolina, teach as an adjunct professor at Queens University of Charlotte (where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology!), and stay actively involved in the local community through organizations like Charlotte Family Housing, and Camp Kesem at UNC. I am connected to professional organizations through the American Psychological Association (APA), the Mecklenburg Psychological Association, and the Charlotte Grief Coalition.
About my background
education and experience
